Main Content

Career Paths in International Affairs

Non-Governmental Organizations, Foreign Representations, Foreign Affairs, Academic Exchange, Cultural Exchange, International Cooperation

Who, if not those studying foreign languages, are “naturally” international? They do face strong competition from the natural sciences and, in terms of subject matter, from cultural studies, but otherwise those who have learned one or more foreign languages at a high or very high level are THE sought-after and popular employees when it comes to organizing the “inter-” between people and countries. A longer stay abroad in one’s youth, studying abroad, and the corresponding language certificate provide the key to opening “international” doors. While the subject, knowledge, and commitment connect well with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), governmental and intergovernmental organizations have now moved on to actively and very specifically recruiting professionals with that certain “international” flair. It’s worth poking around the websites of the relevant organizations for selection and admission procedures. In most cases, there are multi-stage admission requirements (internship, professional experience, further training, selection process) that are not easy to keep track of. However, there are a number of helpful support services available from international offices, career services, and others.

  • Possible Tasks

    - In the context of foreign affairs, you represent the interests of e.g. German citizens abroad in dealings with the authorities of the host country, for example by issuing visas, certifying translations, handling family legal matters, and providing assistance in emergencies.
    - You handle staffing matters at the respective foreign mission, work with local chambers of commerce and industry, provide economic information, and support companies with issues in the host country.
    - You monitor and record your country’s development aid, coordinate efforts with the countries involved, and support and supervise development cooperation experts and their working groups.
    - You organize and run trade fairs and exhibitions.
    - As a country desk officer, you support the political departments at the headquarters of the Federal Foreign Office.
    - You are involved in various projects in developing countries that aim to sustainably improve economic, social, ecological, and political conditions.
    - You analyze conflicts, advise the parties involved, or conduct educational work to de-escalate prevent crises.
    - You take on administrative tasks in projects, participate in project development, assist in fundraising, prepare grant applications, participate in the preparation of project budgets and financial statements, and prepare interim and final reports as well as public relations materials.
    - You maintain contacts abroad and arrange stays at home and abroad, such as exchanges for school students, internships, volunteer services, and research and teaching stays.
    - You supervise and advise international students and researchers as well as other international guests during their stay in the host country and organize networking events and excursions.
    - You design course programs and impart knowledge about the German language, regional studies, and culture.
    - In the field of intercultural communications consulting, you advise internationally active companies, institutions, organizations, and trade associations involved in international development cooperation.

  • Industries and Occupations

    - Headquarters of the Federal Foreign Office in Germany
    - German missions abroad worldwide, e.g. embassies, consulates general, consulates, branch and liaison offices, permanent representations to international organizations and the EU
    - Non-governmental organizations
    - Federal volunteering organizations
    - Public sectoradministration
    - Religious communities
    - Welcome centers and international offices at universities
    - Research institutions
    - Institutions and organizations involved in international development cooperation
    - Cultural institutions and foundations
    - Exchange organizations

  • Job Boards and Professional Associations

At a glance